At the temporary exhibition on display at the Gödöllő Royal Palace, our team was guided by our long-standing friend, János Papházi, Head of Museum Department. He introduced us to the history of the imperial and royal court jewellers’ dynasty, tracing its story from 1814 to the present day. We gained insight into the design and production processes behind the unique pieces and admired several legendary works of art from the past two centuries, many of which are well known from historical accounts but have rarely—or never—been publicly displayed.

These included the lavish gifts of Chancellor Metternich, the bridal jewellery of Archduchess Marie Valerie, and the insignia of the Order of the Golden Fleece, alongside numerous other orders and decorations. Empress Elisabeth’s edelweiss-inspired diamond stars have been objects of admiration ever since their creation. The exhibition also features drawings of the jewellery that disappeared from the notorious No. 13 display case of the imperial and royal treasury in early 1919, Art Deco-inspired designs from the interwar period, and contemporary, individually designed works of jewellery art.